Grogs
Grogs are updated every 3 or 5 years, using the Training Packages found in the book Grogs, pages 68-72.
Effective Date: 1223
Alpine Expatriots (7)
Andel, Quarrelsome Lay Brother
Age 24 in 1223
Size 0
Personality Traits Quarrelsome +3, Stubborn +2, Obedient +1, Curious +1
Reputations
Int +1, Per -2, Pre -1, Com -2, Str +2, Sta +1, Dex +2, Qik +3
Virtues and Flaws Covenfolk (+0); Educated (+1), Tough (+1); Pessimistic (-1), Social Handicap: Arguing (-1)
Abilities Alps Lore 1, Artes Liberales 3, Athletics 1 (sprinting), Brawl 2 (11) (punching), Church Lore 4 (10) (monastic orders), Delvin Lore 0 (4), Folk Ken 2, Gaelic 3 (15), German 5, Guile 2 (insinuations), Icy North Lore 2, Latin 5 (churchmen), Medicine 2 (assisting others), Order of Hermes Lore 1, Profession: Brewer 2 (beer), Single Weapon 4 (axe), Stealth 2 (eavesdropping), Theology 2 (spotting errors)
Combat
Axe and Round Shield Init +4, Atk +11, Def +11, Dmg +8
Punch Init +3, Atk +5, Def +6, Dmg +2
Evasion Init +3, Def +5
Soak +11 (Sta + Tough + armor)
Fatigue Levels OK, 0, -1, -3, -5, Unconscious
Wound Penalties 1-5 Light, 6-10 Medium, 11-15 Heavy, 16-20 Incapacitated, 21+ Dead
Equipment Axe, heater shield, full metal scale armor, clothing, knife
Load 10; Burden 4 - 2 = 2 Encumbrance
Andel is strong, tough, and very fast; he will make a good soldier once he is trained. In the meantime, he reads and writes Latin and his experience in the monastery has allowed him to pick up a few useful skills like medicine and the art of brewing. He was recruited by Rene in 1217 from a monastery in the Alps where Andel was a lay brother. He had a reputation for fighting, was disliked by the other monks, and the prospect of his life in the monastery looked grim. Now, after training, he is a capable fighting grog.
Marshall's Notations (Winter 1222):
Andel is one of those rarest of breeds: The fighting-man who knows his letters. Fortunately, for us, this makes him an asset; unfortunately, for us, he knows it, too. This has led to bouts of the same quarrelsome behavior that saw him expelled at the monastery. So long as he is given a direction and strong guidance, he should continue to serve as an asset on my V-Team.
[Training Packages Awarded: 4 Seasons of Soldier; 1 Season of Local.]
Benedict, Former Bandit
Age 29 in 1223
Size 0
Personality Traits I Don't Want to Die +3, The Jingle of Silver +2, This Place is Dull +1
Reputations
Int 0, Per +1, Pre -1, Com -2, Str +1, Sta +2, Dex +2, Qik +2
Virtues and Flaws Covenfolk; Affinity with Bows (+1), Cautious with Bows (+1), Puissant Bows (+1), Avaricious (-1), Rolling Stone (-1), Unlucky (-1)
Abilities Alps Lore 2 (pilgrim routes), Athletics 3 (running), Awareness 4 (4) (spotting people), Bows 6+2 (70 XP + Affinity) (bow), Brawl 2 (evasion), Concentration 2 (aiming), Gaelic 3 (15), Guile 3 (fast-talk), Icy North Lore 2, Italian 5, Latin 5, Legerdemain 2 (cutting purses), Stealth 5 (ambush)
Combat
Bow Init +1, Atk +14, Dmg +7
Dagger Init +2, Atk +6, Def +4, Dmg +4
Evasion Init +2, Def +4
Soak +9 (Sta 2 + full metal scale 7)
Fatigue Levels OK, 0, -1, -3, -5, Unconscious
Wound Penalties 1-5 Light, 6-10 Medium, 11-15 Heavy, 16-20 Incapacitated, 21+ Dead
Equipment Bow, dagger, full metal scale armor
Load 9; Burden 3 - 1 = 2 Encumbrance
Benedict has a natural talent for archery and experience as a thief in the mountain passes of Lombardy. He was a bandit who, along with his comrades, preyed on pilgrims crossing the Alps. In 1217 he was caught by Rene and convinced to change his ways or die. He is the only archer among the turb, and is usually on lookout duty.
Marshall's Notations (Winter 1222):
While Benedict was in consideration for the V-Team, his skills as bowman were deemed to valuable to spare. In addition, his removal from the Watch rotation would have incurred undue suspicion.
[Training Packages Awarded: 1 Season in Sentry.]
Constance, A Very Big Girl
Age 24 in 1223
Size +1
Personality Traits Do What Must Be Done +3, Christian +2, Humble +1
Reputations
Int 0, Per -2, Pre 0, Com -3, Str +3, Sta +3, Dex +2, Qik +1
Virtues and Flaws Covenfolk; Inspirational (+1), Large (+1), Tough (+1); Ability Block: Woman's Work (-1), Gullible (-1), Uncontrollable Strength (-1)
Abilities Alps Lore 1, Athletics 3 (5) (climbing), Bargain 3 (personal services), Brawl 3 (wrestling), Cor Draconis Lore 1 (7) (Grogs), Folk Ken 2 (establishing trust), Gaelic 3 (15), German 5, Great Weapon 4 (Pole Axe), Icy North Lore 2, Latin 5, Profession: Laborer 5, Swim 2 (strong currents)
Combat
Pole Axe Init +2, Atk +12, Def +6, Dmg +14
Grapple Init +1, Atk +6, Def +5, Dmg +3
Evasion Init +1, Def +3
Soak +13 (Sta + Tough + armor)
Fatigue Levels OK, 0, -1, -3, -5, Unconscious
Wound Penalties 1-6 Light, 7-12 Medium, 13-18 Heavy, 19-24 Incapacitated, 25+ Dead
Equipment Pole axe, full metal scale armor, clothing
Load 9; Burden 3 - 3 = 0 Encumbrance
Constance has the potential to be an excellent warrior, once she is trained. Her distinctive nature as a big fighting woman motivates others -- women are encouraged by her example, and men are determined to prove themselves superior. She is a big, strong, homely woman from Genoa, where her parents are bootmakers. With no prospect for a husband, she left home to make a living for herself in manual labor. Rene recruited her in 1217 when he found her carrying baggage across the Alps for pilgrims. Now armed with a pole axe and with a modicum of training, she has trained to serve as Vanguard in the turb.
On the first day of summer 1221, Constance married Henri. Henri is not the smartest man in the world, but he is a good man and the two of them understand one another. She never has to worry about him lying to her or taking advantage of her naivete. She is now expecting a child, and has asked to be relieved of her Grog duties until the child is born.
Marshall's Notations (Winter 1222):
As with Jenny, Constance's priorities are with rearing her child. More's the pity, she made an excellent Vanguard. A replacement has yet to be designated.
[Training Packages Awarded: 3 Seasons in Covenfolk.]
Sergeant Dobbins, Seasoned Bandit
Age 35 in 1223
Size 0
Personality Traits Whatever it Takes +3, I Told You So +2, I'm Kind When No One is Watching +1
Reputations
Int +1, Per +1, Pre 0, Com -1, Str +1, Sta +2, Dex +1, Qik +1
Virtues and Flaws Covenfolk (+0); Common Sense (+1), Rapid Convalesence (+1), Warrior (+1); Continence (-1), Devoted Parent (-1), Missing Eye (-1)
Abilities Alps Lore 3 (hideouts), Athletics 3 (hiking), Awareness 5 (guard duty), Brawl 3 (4) (dagger), Carouse 3 (holding his drink), Charm 1 (children), Concentration 2 (guard duty), Folk Ken 3 (victims), Gaelic 3 (7), German 5, Guile 1 (concealing crime), Hunt 3 (snow), Latin 5, Leadership 3 (bandits), Organization Lore: Delvin Constabulary 0 (4), Single Weapon 6 (29) (short sword), Stealth 4 (ambush), Survival 2 (starting fire)
Combat
Evasion with Buckler Init +1, Def +6
Short Sword and Heater Shield Init +2, Atk +10, Def +11, Dmg +6
Soak +9 (Sta 2 + Armor 7)
Fatigue Levels OK, 0, -1, -3, -5, Unconscious
Wound Penalties 1-5 Light, 6-10 Medium, 11-15 Heavy, 16-20 Incapacitated, 21+ Dead
Equipment Short sword, heater shield, dagger, traveling gear, full metal scale armor
Load 10; Burden 4 - 1 = 3 Encumbrance
Dobbins has been a bandit for most of his adult life and was recruited by Rene in 1219 from a town gaol where he was awaiting execution. He's not really a bad sort; life is hard and he does what he has to in order to survive. Sometimes that means taking things that belong to other people, or even violence, but he takes no pleasure in it. Dobbins has been a widower since his beloved wife Dora died of a fever five years ago. He's been raising his daughter Karolina, and would like to get her away from his dangerous life, which was his main reason for agreeing to serve Rene. Dobbins has become a sergeant among the Grogs and is recognized for his age and experience.
Marshall's Notations (Winter 1222):
Although cursed with an odd sense of humor, Dobbins is -- at his core -- a good man. With Sir Blane having returned as Turb Captain from his exploits in Arcadia & Normandy, the sergeant's absence has nary been commented upon by his fellow Grogs. I can only assume that most have chalked this up to age. At 35, he is our most senior fighting man here at Cor Draconis.
[Training Packages Awarded: 2 Seasons of Soldier; 1 Season of Local.]
Corporal Frederick, Who Looted A Church
Age 24 in 1223
Size 0
Personality Traits Aggressive +1, Ruthless +2, Pragmatic +3
Reputations
Int -1, Per 0, Pre +1, Com -2, Str +2, Sta +2, Dex +2, Qik +1
Virtues and Flaws Covenfolk (+0), Branded Criminal (-1); Puissant Brawl (+1), Tough (+1); Poor Living Conditions (-1)
Abilities Athletics 2 (running), Awareness 3 (3) (alertness), Brawl 4+2 (fist), Carouse 3 (power drinking), Charm 1 (being witty), Concentration 1 (Grace Under Fire), Disguise 2 (townsfolk), Folk Ken 1 (Delvin), French 3, Gaelic 3 (7), Guile 1 (lying to authority), Latin 5 (5) (magi), Leadership 1 (intimidation), German 5 (slang), Single Weapon 4 (axe), Stealth 2 (streets), Thrown Weapon 3 (knife)
Combat
Evasion Init +1, Def +7
Punch Init +1, Atk +9, Def +8, Dmg +2
Knife Init +1, Atk +9, Def +7, Dmg +4
Thrown Knife Init +1, Atk +7, Dmg +4
Axe and Heater Shield Init +2, Atk +11, Def +10, Dmg +8
Soak +12 (Sta + Tough + Armor)
Fatigue Levels OK, 0, -1, -3, -5, Unconscious
Wound Penalties 1-5 Light, 6-10 Medium, 11-15 Heavy, 16-20 Incapacitated, 21+ Dead
Equipment Clothing, two knives, axe, heater shield, full metal scale armor
Load 10; Burden 4 - 2 = 2 Encumbrance
Frederick was part of a criminal gang in Vienna, where he was born and grew up. When the mayor decided to sweep the streets of petty crime, Frederick fled to the Alps. But he is a city man, and nearly starved in the mountains before he threw himself on a monastery and begged for mercy. The monks hadn't decided what to do with him when Rene arrived in 1219 and took Frederick off their hands. Frederick is able and willing to fight, and has been equipped with good armor and his weapon of choice, and is one of the more capable Grogs in the turb. With his Leadership, he has become Dobbins's second in command.
Marshall's Notations
Of all the V-Team, Frederick gives me the most pause. While Andel's contrarian nature is directed outward, Frederick's is much quieter & far more ruthless in color. On the Proving Grounds, I have seen how aggressive he can be -- especially, when paired against a more formidable opponent. I wonder: Was it a mistake for me to have chosen him to keep watch of Monsieur Travers? I trust Sergeant Dobbins to keep his second in line.
[Training Packages Awarded: 2 Season of Sentry; 1 Season of Local.]
Gregory, Prisoner of War
Age 27 in 1223
Size 0
Personality Traits Pious +3, Yes My Lord +2, I Am No Man's Fool +1
Reputations
Int +1, Per +1, Pre +1, Com +1, Str +1, Sta 0, Dex +1, Qik +1
Virtues and Flaws Covenfolk (+0); Clear Thinker (+1), Strong Willed (+1), Warrior (+1); Pack Mentality (-1), Pious (-1), Unlucky (-1)
Abilities Animal Handling 2 (horses), Athletics 3 (in battle), Awareness 2 (12) (guard duty), Bargain 3 (terms), Brawl 2 (5) (dagger), Charm 3 (first impressions), Etiquette 3 (nobles), Folk Ken 3 (negotiations), Gaelic 3 (7), German 5, Latin 5, Intrigue 2 (nobles), Profession: Herald 3 (coats of arms), Ride (in battle), 3, Single Weapon 6 (short sword)
Combat
Evasion Init +1, Def +1
Short Sword and Heater Shield Init +2, Atk +11, Def +12, Dmg +6
Dagger Init +1, Atk +6, Def +4, Dmg +4
Soak +7 (Armor)
Fatigue Levels OK, 0, -1, -3, -5, Unconscious
Wound Penalties 1-5 Light, 6-10 Medium, 11-15 Heavy, 16-20 Incapacitated, 21+ Dead
Equipment Full metal scale armor, short sword, heater shield, traveling gear
Load 10; Burden 4 - 1 = 3 Encumbrance
Gregory was a soldier and herald in Germany, where he got caught between rival barons and was captured. Unfortunately, his liege back in Germany refused to pay his ransom, and he spent about a year in prison before Rene found him and bought his freedom. Gregory is an experienced soldier, still in the prime of life, and relatively well spoken and intelligent. He is not a leader but, instead, is well spoken, courteous, and good at remembering names and faces. The other grogs admire him for his fighting skill, and he is one of the few grogs which the Black Cloaks do not sneer down upon.
On the first day of summer 1221, Gregory married Jenny the seamstress in a ceremony at the Eye of Balor. He has since moved into her home above the seamstress shop and is an expectant father.
Marshall's Notations
Gregory was one of the more dependable members of the Turb. However, his work has been wanting of late. It appears that fatherhood does not agree with the Germanic soldier as I have, regrettably, received various reports that he has taken to falling asleep at his post on the Watch. He has since been placed on the morning rotation.
[Training Packages Awarded: 3 Seasons of Sentry.]
Henri, Slayer of Three Men in a Tavern Brawl
Age 24 in 1223
Size +1
Personality Traits Carefree +3, Heedless of Danger +2, Loyal +2
Reputations
Int -2, Per -2, Pre +1, Com -1, Str +3, Sta +3, Dex +1, Qik 0
Virtues and Flaws Covenfolk (+0); Large (+1), Tough (+1), Warrior (+1); Carefree (-1), No Sense of Direction (-1), Gullible (-1)
Abilities Athletics 3 (10) (climb), Awareness 2 (5) (guard duty), Brawl 5 (wrestling), Carouse 4 (merrymaking), Gaelic 3 (15), Great Weapon 5 (9) (pole axe), Latin 5 (Hermetic), German 5 (rhyming insults), Ride 2 (trotting)
Combat
Evasion Init 0, Def +2
Poleaxe Init +1, Atk +12, Def +6, Dmg +14
Fist Init 0, Atk +6, Def +5, Dmg +3
Soak +13 (Sta + Armor + Tough)
Fatigue Levels OK, 0, -1, -3, -5, Unconscious
Wound Penalties 1-6 Light, 7-12 Medium, 13-18 Heavy, 19-24 Incapacitated, 25+ Dead
Equipment Full metal scale armor, pole axe, clothing, traveling gear
Encumbrance 0
Henri didn't mean to hurt those people. I mean, Henri meant to hit that one guy, sure. But Henri did not know his head was broken so easy. And then those other guys joined in. What was Henri supposed to do? Then Henri was arrested. Henri was going to die. A knight in armor came and gave the guard captain some money. The knight said Henri had to let God into his heart. This was very easy for Henri. Now he works for the knight. Henri hope not to have to break people again, but Henri can never be sure. Henri just pawn in game of life.
When the wizards lit the big fire around the hill, Henri married Constance, who makes him very happy. It was very hard to find any time alone together, but now she is going to have a baby and Henri is going to be a father. He is not going to hit his baby, the way Henri's dad hit him. Who would do that? That is just mad.
Marshall's Notations (Winter 1222):
There is no mistaking that Henri is a tad dimwitted. Having said as much, what he lacks in intellectual prowess he more than makes up for in heart. He, too, is in a fatherly way, but unlike Gregory this new disposition has only increased his resolve, and dedication. He is a good soldier. More importantly, he is a good man. Recommend that he be trained to take his wife's place as Vanguard.
[Training Packages Awarded: 6 Seasons of Pikeman.]
The Black Cloaks (9)
"Then we will fight in the shade." Herodotus's Historia
The Black Cloaks are elite shield Grogs trained by House Tremere. Their training is inspired by the Spartans of Lacaedemonia, though most are recruited from the Bulgarians or Hungarian peoples. They must be physically excellent specimens and are drilled in obedience and martial prowess from childhood; many do not survive the training process. Many more are weeded out and join the regular ranks of the Turb. Those that complete their training are masters of fighting with long spears and massive shields (emblazoned, naturally, with the symbol of House Tremere). They can ride, but prefer to run and fight on foot. Their back-up weapon is a short sword.
Black Cloaks are trained to obey magi and doing so is a point of pride for them; this doesn't mean they agree with their orders, but they will execute those orders to perfection. Black Cloaks believe they are the best Shield Grogs in the Order and they perceive any other duty as beneath them. However, they will tolerate this, as long as no one else is assigned the task of guarding a magus. When a Black Cloak finds out that his magus chose someone else to protect him, this is the greatest of insults. More than one Shield Grog has found himself kidnapped at night, tied up, and dumped in a river by a territorial Black Cloak. A Black Cloak will perform manual labor if ordered by a magus, but will hate his master for it, seeing it as an intentional humiliation.
The Alpine Apprentices originally had seven Black Cloaks, gifted to the covenant by Diana of Tremere. They consider Victor to be first among the magi. One of the seven, Decanus Marius, is a junior officer with some leadership and training experience. One, Marcellus, died on the Night of the Primroses. In 1226, his replacement and two others arrived from Transylvania.
Mechanically, Black Cloaks have more Virtues and Flaws than a Grog is usually allowed, and they have a Major Personality Trait. Their spears are identical in stats to Boar Spears, but require great Strength (+2) to use with one hand, can be thrown, and are made to exact specifications from materials only found in the Transylvanian Tribunal, making them Expensive.
Individual Notes
Decanus Marius: Three years older. Add Leadership 3 (Tremere) and Teaching 3 (soldiers). In his Restricted Learning Flaw, substitute Leadership and Teaching for Brawl and Survival. Marius is the only one of the Black Cloaks to wear a beard. He speaks to Victor on behalf of the other Black Cloaks, and presumes that he is Victor's Shield Grog, though this has not been confirmed.
Lucius, the best looking, who serves Cernunnos.
Titus, who cheats at dice and serves Innocentius.
Cornelius, who has the biggest sword and serves Samson.
Gaius, who serves Sander; formally Myrna. Gaius wears Excellent enchanted mail with a total Protection of +13 and a Soak of +15.
Cassius, who serves Alfeva. Cassius wears Excellent enchanted mail with a total Protection of +13 and a Soak of +15.
Claudius, who serves Myrna. Claudius was one of the arrivals in 1226.
Tiberius, who serves Polumeta and is played by Rupert Sewell. Tiberius arrived in 1226.
Nero, who serves Lucien and is played by Jon Snow. Nero arrived in 1226.
Marcellus, the strongest, who served Polumeta. Marcellus died on the first night of summer, 1223, when Igneous Drake attacked the covenant's magi. He was killed by Volcanis, Igneous's familiar, after hurling a spear at the drake.
Age 28 (in 1223)
Size 0
Personality Traits Proud +3, Loyal +3, Fearless +3
Int 0, Per 0, Com -2, Pre +1, Str +2, Sta +2, Dex +2, Qik +2
Virtues & Flaws Turb Trained (+1); Cautious with Single Weapon (+1), Improved Characteristics (+1), Puissant Single Weapon (+1), Warrior (+1); Pack Mentality (-1), Proud: Major (-3), Restricted Learning: Athletics, Brawl, Single Weapon, Survival, and Thrown Weapon (-1)
Abilities Athletics (running) 4 (5), Brawl (10) (evasion) 5, House Tremere Lore 1 (military policy), Latin 5 (Hermetic), Order of Hermes Lore 1 (Grogs), Ride 1 (long distances), Single Weapon 6+2 (shield), South Slavonic 5, Survival 3 (mountains), Thrown Weapon 5 (spear)
Combat
Long Spear and Shield Init +5, Atk +13, Def +15, Dmg +9
Thrown Spear Init +2, Atk +11, Dmg +9
Short Sword and Shield Init +3, Atk +12, Def +14, Dmg +7
Evasion Init +2, Def +10
Soak +10 (Sta 2 + Protection 8)
Load 14.5 = Burden 4 - 2 Str = 2 Encumbrance
Equipment Full metal scale armor (load 6), gambeson (load 1.5), open helmet (load 1), infantry shield (load 3), spear (load 2), short sword (load 1), black cloak.
Encumbrance -2
Marshall's Notations (Winter 1222):
The Black Cloaks continue to serve w/ distinction -- a true testament to House Tremere.
[Training Packages Awarded: 3 Years of Soldier.]
The Scots (4)
Sir Hamish of Carrick & His Men
In summer 1221, Sir Hamish of Carrick passed himself off as a knight errant visiting Sir Blane's fiefdom of Summerstone. "I am questing for a knight valorous enough to swear fealty to," he said, challenging Sir Blane to a jousting match. He lost.
As the sunset, Sir Hamish and his men swore allegiance to the Summer Knight. Since then he and his men have served Cor Draconis as a mounted patrol. His band presently consists of the following: Graham of Dunbar; Aodhán of Strathclyde & Lenox of Lennox. One of his knights, Eoghan of Galloway, was discovered to be a spy for Whitburh of Guernicus, leader of the covenant of Horsingas and was dispatched from the covenant accordingly.
Age: 30 (in 1223)
Size: 0
Personality Traits: Janus-Faced +3, Xenophobic +3, Ill-Tempered +1
Reputations: Raider Captain -- Hadrian's Wall 3
Warping: 0 (1, Magical)
Intelligence 0, Perception 0, Presence 0, Communication +1, Strength 0, Stamina 0, Dexterity +3, Quickness 0
Virtues & Flaws: Affinity with Ride, Puissant Ride, Warrior; Hatred: Anglo-Norman, Outsider: Raider, Outlaw Leader
Abilities: Animal Handling 2, Area Lore: Scottish Earldom of Origin 2, Athletics 4, Awareness 2, Brawl 3 (5), Charm 2 (Scoundrel), Etiquette 3, Folk Ken 2, Great Weapon 3, Intrigue 2, Latin 4, Leadership 4 (1) (Scots), Native Language: Scottish 5, Organization Lore: Scottish Earldom of Origin 2, Ride 5+2 (Staying Ahorse), Single Weapon 5 (Lance), Swim 2
Combat:
Lance Init +2, Atk +13, Def +6, Dmg +5
[Training Package Awarded: 4 Seasons of Leader.]
Hamish's Noble Warhorse
Characteristics: Cun –2, Per +1, Pre +1, Com –4, Str +6, Sta +3, Dex +1, Qik 0
Size: +3
Confidence: 1 (3)
Virtues & Flaws: Ferocity (when ridden in battle), Improved Characteristics x 2, Long-Winded, Proud (minor) Qualities: Domesticated, Fast Runner, Herd Animal, Imposing Appearance,
Tireless
Personality Traits: Proud +3, Loyal +2, Brave +1
Soak: +3
Fatigue Levels: OK, 0/0, –1/–1, –3, –5, Unconscious
Wound Penalties: –1 (1–8), –3 (9–16), –5 (17–24), Incapacitated (25–32), Dead (33+)
Abilities: Athletics 5 (in battle), Awareness 2 (bad footing), Brawl 3 (hooves)
Combat:
Hooves: Init +2, Atk +7, Def +7, Dmg +7
Sir Hamish's Men (3)
Age: 27 (in 1223)
Size: 0
Personality Traits: Loyal to Sir Hamish +3, Xenophobic +2
Reputations: Raider -- Hadrian's Wall 1
Warping: 0 (1, Magical)
Intelligence 0, Perception 0, Presence 0, Communication +1, Strength 0, Stamina 0, Dexterity +3, Quickness 0
Virtues & Flaws: Affinity with Ride, Warrior; Hatred: Anglo-Norman, Outsider: Raider
Abilities: Animal Handling 2, Area Lore: Scottish Earldom of Origin 2, Area Lore: Cor Draconis (The Hill) 1, Athletics 4, Awareness 2 (6), Brawl 3 (5), Charm 1, Etiquette 3, Folk Ken 1, Great Weapon 3, Intrigue 2, Latin 4, Leadership 1 (5), Native Language: Scottish 5, Organization Lore: Scottish Earldom of Origin 2, Ride 5 (Staying Ahorse), Single Weapon 4 (Lance), Stealth 1 (Riding at Night), Swim 2
Individual Notes:
Graham the Dashing of Dunbar
Aodhán the Grim of Strathclyde
Lenox the Dim of Lennox
[Training Package Awarded: 4 Seasons of Scout.]
Coursers (x3)
Characteristics: Cun –2, Per 0, Pre 0, Com –4, Str +4, Sta +3, Dex +1, Qik 0
Size: +2
Confidence 1 (3)
Virtues & Flaws: Ferocity (when ridden in battle), Improved Characteristics, Long-Winded, Proud (minor) Qualities: Domesticated, Fast Runner, Herd Animal, Imposing Appearance, Tireless
Personality Traits: Proud +3, Loyal +2, Brave +1
Soak: +3
Fatigue Levels: OK, 0/0, –1/–1, –3, –5, Unconscious
Wound Penalties: –1 (1–7), –3 (8–14), –5 (15–21), Incapacitated (22–28), Dead (29+)
Abilities: Athletics 5 (in battle), Awareness 2 (bad footing), Brawl 3 (hooves)
Combat:
Hooves: Init +2, Atk +7, Def +7, Dmg +5
Marshall's Notations (Winter 1222):
I do not trust the lot of these so-called Scottish "knights." Their mannerisms are coarse; their dispositions, worse -- especially in the presence of the fairer sex. Sir Blane tells me that this is merely how a Scotsman conducts himself: As if each day were his last. I wish I could believe him. There is something to how the leader, Hamish, looks glares at me that gives me pause. I am thankful that much and more of their time is spent outside the covenant's walls.
Brádach, a Bastard
Age: 27 (in 1223)
Size: +1
Personality Traits: Loyal to Lindsey, a Pickpocket +3, Slothful +2, Entitled +1
Reputations: Bastard Heir of Sir Dougal, First of His Name +2
Warping: 0 (1, Magical)
Intelligence -1, Perception +1, Presence -2, Communication +1, Strength +3, Stamina +3, Dexterity 0, Quickness -2 (Decreases to -3 w/ Obese Flaw)
Virtues & Flaws: Large, Learn Great Weapon from Mistakes, Puissant Carouse; Careless with Great Weapon, Obese, Weakness: Cakes!
Abilities: Area Lore: Carrick 2 (Dalmellington), Brawl 3 (Grappling), Carouse 5+2 (7) (Drinking Games), Folk Ken 3 (Fellow Drunkards), Great Weapon 5 (Warhammer), Guile 3 (5) (Debt Collectors), Latin 4, Music 3 (Whistling), Native Language: Scottish 5 (Epitaphs Levied at Mothers), Organization Lore: The Manor Court of Sir Dougal, First of His Name 2 (Chain-of-Command), Ride 3 (Tricks), Stealth 2 (Hide)
Combat:
Brawl: Initiative: -4, Attack: +2, Defense: 0, Damage: +3
Beatrix (Warhammer) Initiative: -4, Attack: +11, Defense: +3, Damage: +15
Soak: +12
Encumbrance: 1 (Load 9 from Armor & Warhammer, Burden 4-3)
Wound Penalties: -1 (1-6), -3 (7-12), -5 (13-18), Incapacitated (18-23), Dead (24+)
Fatigue Levels: OK, 0, 0, -2, -4, Unconscious (Add -3 to all Fatigue Rolls w/ Obese Flaw)
Gear: Beatrix (Warhammer), Chainmail, Wineskin
Brádach is the bastard son of Sir Dougal and a common whore. He was sired one summer’s night in 1196; the same night the infamous horse thief ran afoul an angel as providence would have it. Years later—once word of Dougal’s exploits leading the Summer Brigade against the Earldom of Orkney had spread to all corners of Mythic Scotland—the common whore presented her case, along with her swaddling charge, to Bishop Jocelin of Glasgow. In the Bishop, she had found an advocate. Deeming her case as valid, he condemned her as being too ill in both spirit and person to properly raise a child. Her Jezebel nature had taken its toll and he promptly discharged her to a local covenant, relieving her of the child. From there, he turned the matter over to the King of the Scots, William the Lion; King William turned the matter over to the Earl of Carrick, Lord Donnchadh; Lord Donnchadh turned the matter over to the lord of Dalmellington, Sir Thomas de Colville; the "Scott" turned the matter over to his reeve, an exasperated Euan. Along with the matter came the child and a good dressing down that grew with each subsequent handover.
Needless to say, Euan was not pleased. Realizing that his son was not man enough for fatherhood, he brought the child home to his wife, Fiona, to raise. Having grown anxious with empty nest syndrome, Fiona delighted at these turn of events. “Least someone is pleased,” Euan grumbled. Since then Brádach has been raised a Reeve. When he reached manhood, he took a place in his father’s court as a man-at-arms. Sir Dougal has yet to recognize him as his heir—in spite the uncanniness in both their shared appearances and temperaments.
Marshall's Notation (Winter 1222):
Brádach is less an asset to the welfare of Cor Draconis and more of a shambling hindrance. He habitually fails to report to his post -- opting to spend his hours in the kitchens filching cakes and whatever else he can score his mitts on. On those rare occasions when he deign to favor us with his presence, he's drunk, too drunk to stand sometimes. Were he not the Turb Captain's relation...
No, this situation is intolerable! I will speak with Marius come spring, perhaps the Black Cloaks can provide him amble motivation for him to shed his indolence.
[Training Packages Awarded: 4 Seasons of Wastrel (+5 Guile & +7 Carouse).]
The Welshmen (12)
Welsh Longbowman
Age 25 (in 1222)
Size +0
Personality Traits Disciplined +2, Brave +2, Proud +3
Reputations Elite Mercenary 2
Int 0, Per +1, Pre -1, Com -1, Str +2, Sta +1, Dex +2, Qik +1
Virtues and Flaws Covenfolk (+0); Affinity with Bow (+1), Puissant Bow (+1), Warrior (+1); Proud (-1), Social Handicap: Act Like Royalty (-1), Unlucky (-1)
Abilities Athletics 3, Awareness 4 (targets), Bargain 3, Bow 6+2 (longbow) (70+Affinity), Brawl 3 (dagger), Carouse 3 (after victory), Concentration 3 (aiming), English 4 (soldiers), Gaelic 2, Hunt 3 (deer), Latin 4, Wales Lore 3 (battle sites), Welsh 5
Combat
Longbow Init -1, Atk +15, Def --, Dmg +10
Dagger Init +1, Atk +8, Def +5, Dmg +5
Evasion Init +1, Def +4
Soak +5 (Sta +1 and armor +4)
Fatigue Levels OK, 0, -1, -3, -5, Unconscious
Wound Penalties 1-5 Light, 6-10 Medium, 11-15 Heavy, 16-20 Incapacitated, 21+ Dead
Equipment Longbow (2), dagger, boiled leather cuirass (3), gamebson (1.5), iron cap
Encumbrance Load 7, Burden 2 - 2 Str = 0
In 1222 Sir Blane traveled to Wales and recruited a troop of veteran longbowmen fresh from the wars of Welsh unification under Llewellyn the Great. The Welshmen don't expect anyone to speak Welsh, and they know a little English, but they generally dislike Normans. Welsh are a proud people who, because of their inheritance laws, can almost all lay claim to the title of Prince. They hold fiercely to their freedom and, despite their poverty, act like nobles.
Marshall's Notations (Winter 1222):
To date, the Welshmen have yet to prove their mettle in defense of the covenant. I won't lie, it is good to have the added artillery.
(Also, w/ the additional manpower, the absence of the Vis-Team has gone relatively unnoticed.)
[Training Packages Awarded: N/A.]
The Irishmen (16)
The covenant has hired sixteen Irish warriors to help fill out the turb. Irish warriors are poor by the standards of English knights. Their axe is their only possession of Standard cost; otherwise they bear throwing spears, carry round wooden shields, and wear heavy clothing partially reinforced with leather. All of this means that, while brave and cunning, an Irish warrior is no match for a Continental soldier who may have similar training but superior equipment.
Age 20 in 1220 (born in 1200)
Siz 0
Virtues Peasant; Warrior (+1)
Flaws Personality Flaw -1 (Eochu: Proud, Lugaid: Reckless, Moenach: Weakness -- Gambling, Niall: Lecherous)
Int 0, Per +1, Pre -1, Com +1, Str +1, Sta +1, Dex +2, Qik +1
Abilities Animal Handling 3 (cattle), Athletics 3 (10) (running), Awareness 2 (6) (guard duty), Brawl 4 (grapple), Carouse 3 (boasts), Gaelic 5, Hunt 3, Intimidate 2 (before battle), Ireland Lore 2 (local), Latin 5, Single Weapon 4 (axe), Swim 2 (rivers), Thrown Weapon 5 (javelin)
Gear Axe, round shield, partial leather armor, two throwing spears, simple clothing, silver or bronze jewelry
Load 8; Burden 2
Soak +3 (Sta +1 and Partial Leather +2)
Combat
Axe and shield Init +2, Atk +11, Def +8, Dmg +7
Javelin Init +1, Atk +10, Def --, Dmg +6
Punch Init +1, Atk +6, Def +5, Dmg +1
Marshall's Notations (Winter 1222):
There is something altogether benighted about the men of Hibernia. While not as crass as the Scots, their ardent adherence to their Pagan heritage is altogether pitiful. It is my reverent hope that the Good Lord will see fit to reunite with His lost, Irish sheep once the church is finally built.
I know I am the minority on this issue, but I cannot help think that in our haste to be neighborly we made a grievous error. The initial lighting the Eye of Baelor in 1220 was a mistake; it sent the wrong message to Hibernia. Were it up to me, I would see this error undone.
[Training Packages Awarded: 9 Seasons of Javeliner (+10 Athletics, +6 Awareness & +25 Thrown Weapon).]
Grog Template
Name, Distinguishing Phrase
Age
Size
Personality Traits (Written as traits or phrases; at least one should indicate a willingness to fight)
Reputations
Int , Per , Pre , Com , Str , Sta , Dex , Qik
Virtues and Flaws Covenfolk (+0)
Abilities
Combat
Evasion Init , Def
Soak
Fatigue Levels OK, 0, -1, -3, -5, Unconscious
Wound Penalties 1-5 Light, 6-10 Medium, 11-15 Heavy, 16-20 Incapacitated, 21+ Dead
Equipment (Grogs equipped at Icy North have Standard armaments)
Encumbrance
A brief background should include how and when the Grog was recruited, a very brief summary of his life before recruitment, and the Grog's strengths and weaknesses. Some hint of further training may be included, if this is not already clear.
The Dead and Fallen
Donal, Seasoned Berserker (Killed fighting a Dragon)
Age 25
Size +1
Personality Traits Rage +3, Never Backs Down From A Fight +3, Vulgar +2, Following Orders -2
Reputations Berserker 2
Int -2, Per -1, Pre -1, Com -1, Str +3, Sta +2, Dex +2, Qik +1
Virtues and Flaws Covenfolk; Berserker (+1), Hermetic Experience (+1), Large (+1); Raised in the Gutter (-1), Short Attention Span (-1), Wrathful (-1)
Abilities Alps Lore 1 (passes), Athletics 3 (running), Awareness 4 (10) (guard duty), Brawl 4 (evasion), Concentration 2 (staying awake), Guile 1 (apologies), Great Weapon 7 (5) (pole axe), German 5 (insults), Latin 4 (talking to magi), Single Weapon 1 (heater shield), Survival 3 (mountains)
Combat
Pole Axe Init +2, Atk +15, Def +9, Dmg +14
Berserk Pole Axe Init +2, Atk +17, Def +7, Dmg +14
Evasion Init +1, Def +3
Berserk Evasion Init +1, Def +1
Soak +9 or +11 when Berserk (Sta 2 + Full Metal Scale 7)
Fatigue Levels OK, 0, -1, -3, -5, Unconscious
Wound Penalties 1-6 Light, 7-12 Medium, 13-18 Large, 19-24 Incapacitated, 25+ Dead
Equipment Pole axe, knife, full metal scale armor, pack containing gear to care for weapons and armor and establish camps when traveling.
Encumbrance 0 (3)
Donal is a deadly warrior, first and foremost. However, his life at Icy North has earned him a good command of Latin, which leads to interaction with magi. He's also served many long shifts on guard duty. He spent years as a Grog in the Turb of Icy North, but his uncontrollable temper made him unpopular. In 1217 he asked to join Rene's recruitment efforts, where he was able to provide language skills Rene did not have.
Donal died at the Covenant of Terragon Vale when he rushed to help Rene fight Nemesis the Dragon. Unbeknownst to Donal, Nemesis's blood was poisonous. He was touched by the spray of blood from Nemesis's many wounds and perished. Rene saw to it he got a Christian burial at Terragon Vale.
Eustace, Murderer (died defending the cathach)
Age 21 in 1220, when he died.
Size 0
Personality Traits Self-Preservation +3, Bold +1, Guilt +2
Reputations Murderer 4
Int 0, Per 0, Pre -1, Com +2, Str +1, Sta +1, Dex +2, Qik 0
Virtues and Flaws Covenfolk (+0); Good Teacher (+1), Puissant Brawl (+1), Tough (+1); Manifest Sin (-1), Infamous (-1), Master of None (-1)
Abilities Animal Handling 3 (cattle), Athletics 2 (running), Awareness 2 (alertness), Bargain 1 (food), Brawl 2+2 (bludgeon), Carouse 1 (staying sober), Charm 2 (first impressions), Concentration 1, Craft: Cooperage 1 (oak barrels), Craft: Furniture Maker 1 (chairs), Craft: Masonry 1 (repairs), Craft: Woodworking 2 (treating wood), Fishing 1 (rivers), Folk Ken 2 (peasants), German 5, Guile 2 (concealing his past), Hunt 2 (rabbits), Intrigue 1 (people interested in him), Latin 1 (magi), Profession: Farmer 1 (harvest), Profession: Laborer 1 (digging), Profession: Tinker 2 (tin), Single Weapon 2 (axe), Stealth 2 (hiding), Survival 2 (on the road), Swim 2 (rivers), Teaching 1 (carpentry)
Combat
Axe and Heater Shield Init +1, Atk +9, Def +6, Dmg +7
Evasion Init 0, Def +4
Dagger Init 0, Atk +8, Def +4, Dmg +4
Soak +4 (Sta + Toughness; add +7 if in armor)
Fatigue Levels OK, 0, -1, -3, -5, Unconscious
Wound Penalties 1-5 Light, 6-10 Medium, 11-15 Heavy, 16-20 Incapacitated, 21+ Dead
Equipment Simple clothing, carpentry and tinker tools, fishing line, dagger, axe, heater shield, full metal scale armor
Load Usually none, when serving in the Turb 10; Burden 4 - 1 = 3 Encumbrance
Eustace was in love with a young woman whose father did not approve of the match. When her father found out the pair intended to flee to Italy and marry, he caught Eustace and locked him in the barn. When Eustace did not appear at the intended time, his beloved concluded he had abandoned her, and she threw herself off a cliff to her death. Eustace found her body at the bottom of a ravine and, consumed by rage, he returned to her father's house and hit the man in the head with a rock until he was dead. Eustace went on the run and survived for a while doing odd jobs, fleeing whenever the authorities got close. But when Rene found him in 1219, he was on his way to the gallows. He is not a martial man, and is instead a Jack of all Trades who can handle himself in a fight. Although assigned fighting gear, he is usually busy with the cattle or doing odd jobs around the covenant. He only serves as a soldier when all hands are summoned for an emergency.
Eustace was killed when a trio of apprentices raided the covenant in summer of 1220. The apprentices had Irishmen as servants and Grogs, and one of them struck off Eustace's head with an axe.
Leine Dhearg, Died in the Haunted Covenant
Leine Dhearg (Gaelic: Red Shirt) was Nualla's shield grog when she visited the covenant in the Spring of 1222. When Samson's wounds reopened, Nualla took his place in the exploration of the Haunted Covenant and Leine bravely served as her guardian. He survived battles with several skeletons, but when the group investigated the long house and were attacked by a dozen skeletal revenants, four of them ganged up on Leine Dhearg and tore him limb from limb. Nualla had his body preserved and brought it back to Qui Sonant Pro Quieto for burial.
Age 20 in 1222
Siz 0
Virtues Peasant; Warrior (+1)
Flaws Proud -1
Int 0, Per +1, Pre -1, Com +1, Str +1, Sta +1, Dex +2, Qik +1
Abilities Animal Handling 3 (cattle), Athletics 3 (running), Awareness 2 (guard duty), Brawl 4 (grapple), Carouse 3 (boasts), Gaelic 5, Hunt 3, Intimidate 2 (before battle), Ireland Lore 2 (local), Single Weapon 4 (axe), Swim 2 (rivers), Thrown Weapon 4 (javelin)
Gear Axe, round shield, partial leather armor, two throwing spears, simple clothing, silver or bronze jewelry
Load 8; Burden 2
Soak +3 (Sta +1 and Partial Leather +2)
Combat
Axe and shield Init +2, Atk +11, Def +8, Dmg +7
Javelin Init +1, Atk +9, Def --, Dmg +6
Punch Init +1, Atk +6, Def +5, Dmg +1
Marcellus, Black Cloak
Marcellus was Polumeta's Black Cloak and served her for three years as shield grog until the Eye of Balor ceremony of 1223, widely known as the Night of the Primrose. On this evening, when Samson proposed marriage to Polumeta and she accepted, Igneous Drake, six grogs of Elk's Run, and Volcanis the Fire Drake attacked the assemblage. In the first moments of battle, Marcellus threw his spear at Volcanis. It was a sound hit, but failed to penetrate the drake's bronze scales. The drake responded by breathing fire, killing Marcellus instantly.
Marcellus was cremated in the days that followed. The Black Cloaks take their oaths of service more seriously than death itself, and a tooth from Marcellus's skull was given to Polumeta to act as an arcane connection to her dead shield grog, should she ever require his services again. A second tooth was given to Victor, as the ranking Tremere at the covenant and Princeps. The skull was sent back, by Redcap, to Coeris, where it was presumably interrogated with necromantic magic to learn the story of Marcellus's death and to provide another arcane connection for Tremere necromancers who might need a ghost. Marcellus's ashes were placed in an urn which was sealed with lead. Marius, as leader of the survivors, keeps this urn.